Inorganics Laboratory Manager

About the role

The Inorganics Manager is responsible for the leadership, operational performance, and continuous improvement of the Wet Chemistry and Metals departments. This role ensures efficient laboratory operations, high-quality analytical results, regulatory compliance, and strong team development.

Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership
  • Lead day-to-day operations of Wet Chemistry and Metals departments to meet production, quality, and turnaround targets
  • Optimize workflow, staffing, and resource allocation to maximize efficiency and minimize waste
  • Identify and implement process improvements, including new technologies, instrumentation, and methodologies
  • Monitor and improve turnaround times while ensuring adherence to method holding times
• People Management & Development
  • Supervise, coach, and develop Team Leads and laboratory staff
  • Address employee performance, engagement, and morale proactively
  • Partner with leadership and HR on workforce planning, staffing needs, and disciplinary actions
  • Foster a high-performance, accountable, and safety-first culture
• Quality & Compliance
  • Ensure all work complies with ALS Quality Management System, SOPs, and regulatory requirements
  • Partner with QA to maintain and update methods, SOPs, and documentation
  • Review QA/QC data, investigate deviations, and implement corrective actions
  • Prepare for and respond to internal and external audits
• Technical Oversight
  • Maintain working knowledge of analytical methods and instrumentation within the departments
  • Monitor instrument performance and ensure timely calibration, maintenance, and repair
  • Escalate technical or quality issues affecting data integrity or production
• Client & Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Collaborate with other departments to ensure seamless workflow and customer satisfaction
  • Support client needs through timely delivery of high-quality results
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across the laboratory
• Safety & Compliance
  • Promote and enforce all health, safety, and environmental policies
  • Ensure safe laboratory practices and proper handling of chemicals and equipment
• Continuous Improvement
  • Drive initiatives to improve productivity, reduce waste (solvents, consumables), and minimize rework
  • Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) for department performance

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related scientific field
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced laboratory environment
• Experience working within a quality-driven laboratory (e.g., ISO, NELAC, EPA methods)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and laboratory systems (LIMS preferred)

Preferred Qualifications

• 10+ years of laboratory experience
• 5+ years of supervisory or management experience
• Experience in environmental or analytical testing laboratories
• Strong knowledge of wet chemistry and metals analysis techniques
• Leadership and team development
• Operational efficiency and problem-solving
• Quality and compliance focus
• Decision-making under pressure
• Continuous improvement mindset

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. (with assistance when appropriate)
• Ability to stand, walk, and perform laboratory activities throughout the workday
• Manual dexterity for operating instruments and equipment
• Ability to communicate clearly with team members and clients

Why ALS?

We invest in our people and provide opportunities for growth and development. Our benefits include: Competitive compensation with structured increases, Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, Retirement plan with company match, Paid time off and additional service-based vacation days, Education and career development support, Employee wellness and assistance programs, Equal opportunity employment, Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process, Eligibility to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.